[Does living in Taiwan affect how you vote in the US?]

Americans in Taiwan have a vested interest in what happens to their chosen home. But do they take those issues to heart when voting for a US president? We hit the streets to find out. 

As China has been making unprecedented military maneuvers in Taiwan’s air space and waters, is China preparing to attack Taiwan? Defense expert at the Institute of National Defense and Security Research in Taipei Dr. Lee Che-chuan explains why he doesn’t think China is ready for war.

[US would have to defend Taiwan if China attacks]

Congress introduced new legislation in both the House and Senate this week that would push the two sides closer to normal ties. The topics cover everything from defense and diplomacy, to health, trade, and cultural ties. Watch to find out more!

LINKS:

US Senators Introduce Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act (RTI): https://en.rti.org.tw/news/view/id/2004192 

Seven pro-Taiwan bills introduced in US House of Representatives (RTI): https://en.rti.org.tw/news/view/id/2004193 

US Congress introduces two bills concerning Taiwan (Focus Taiwan): https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202010210007

[Forced confessions? MAC says so.]

Chinese state television (CCTV) aired a three-part series this week featuring video footage of four Taiwanese men saying that they are spies. Find out Taiwan’s response, and how Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) is warning about travel to China.

[52% of Taiwanese think so!]

With increased cross-strait tensions, a recent survey found that most people in Taiwan think women should be required to serve in the military. Do you agree? Check out other fascinating findings from this recent survey.

[1st in Taiwan!]

Moongazers will want to check out the view from Hohuan Mountain, Taiwan’s first International Dark-Sky Park. It’s one of just three such parks in Asia! In today’s Taiwan Explained, find out what it takes to become an international dark-sky park, and how YOU can help cut down on light pollution!

LINKS:

-Visit the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to find out more about light pollution, protected areas, and how you can help: https://www.darksky.org/

-Hehuan Mountain Becomes Taiwan’s First International Dark Sky Park:

https://www.darksky.org/hehuan-mountain-becomes-taiwans-first-international-dark-sky-park/  

-Learn more about light pollution (Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light_pollution 

[China says the line doesn’t exist.]

Chinese warplanes have entered Taiwan’s air space six times in the past eight days, with some crossing the median line that separates Taiwan’s territory from China. But now China is saying this line doesn’t even exist. We’ll explain why that’s no small matter.

LINKS:

The Defense Ministry’s website showing real-time military activity:

https://www.mnd.gov.tw/PublishTable.aspx?Types=%E5%8D%B3%E6%99%82%E8%BB%8D%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%95%E6%85%8B&title=%E5%9C%8B%E9%98%B2%E6%B6%88%E6%81%AF

More about the median line:

https://nationalinterest.org/feature/china-ends-%E2%80%98median-line%E2%80%99-taiwan-strait-start-crisis-169402

[When disaster strikes]

Taiwan has seen its fair share of earthquakes, typhoons and other natural disasters, so it’s always best to be prepared. Today’s lifehack shows you how to pack a “go bag” that can be used in any emergency

What to pack in your “go bag”:

Food & water for three days

Clothes to keep you warm

ID

Cash

Flashlight

Whistle

Swiss army knife

First aid kit & personal medication

Shoes

Helmet (optional)

LINKS:

Where should you go when you evacuate: 

https://www.nfa.gov.tw/cht/index.php?code=list&ids=82

Who to contact when seeking help:

https://www.nfa.gov.tw/cht/index.php?code=list&ids=83

[Are pets Taiwan’s new children?]

Discover the science behind why pets make us happier and healthier! We also discuss what’s behind the trend of more and more Taiwanese keeping pets. As the birth rate drops, some are turning to pets as the “new life companion,” one that will provide the fuzziest cuddles and loyal companionship. Are they Taiwan’s new children?